Study using perfused human placental tissue demonstrates polystyrene nanoplastics affect expression of inflammation and iron homeostasis-related genes; review summarizes that small plastic particles can enter reproductive organs and affect reproductive health, however further research needed to verify the results and assess mechanisms of reproductive toxicity
Fluorochemicals in popcorn bags worldwide
Scientists quantify per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) and their precursors in microwave popcorn bags sampled in Europe, Americas, Asia; short-chain PFASs prevalent in Europe and Americas, long-chain PFASs in Asia
Nanomaterials in waste streams
Non-profit organizations call for better control of manufactured nanomaterials in waste streams in declaration with over 80 signatories worldwide
Discussing database on SVHCs in products
Manufacturers criticize ECHA’s proposal for database of SVHCs in products; recycling industry welcomes the idea but is concerned about lack of coverage for products already marketed; ECHA to hold a workshop on SVHC database on October 22-23, 2018
Studies assess PFAS, OPEs, and plasticizers in paper & board
Review summarizes per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) migration from paper food packaging into food and food simulants and identifies dietary exposure of PFAS as potential human health risk; study highlights need to further evaluate organophosphate esters (OPEs) and prohibited PFAS in paper and aluminum foil food packaging; scientists analyze and recommend extraction method to assess plasticizers in recycled paperboard
“Should I worry about plastics?”
BBC2 report investigates chemical exposure from plastic food packaging and consults with leading toxicologists; likely no concern for average adults; reducing plastic use recommended
Tackling the toxics in plastics packaging
Article in PLOS Biology discusses hazardous chemicals in plastics; highlights chemicals as critical but often missing aspect in plastic pollution discussion; proposes rethinking current approach to plastic packaging toxicity testing
BPA exposure too low to have health effects
New study estimating BPA exposure to be safe raises opposing voices
Plastic tea bags release billions of particles
Researchers measure micro- and nanoplastics released from plastic tea bags during brewing; find over 14 billion particles released per bag, record dose-dependent behavioral and developmental effects on daphnia
Chemical cocktails harmful to human health
Danish research shows that chemical cocktails often have additive effects, thus even small doses of single chemicals are potentially harmful